The Painted Bunting is a must-see visitor to our Natural Area! Imagine a small bird that looks like it rolled around in a pool of melted crayons. Colorful to say the least!

Join knowledgeable birders from the Friends of Government Canyon Activities Committee and experience these amazing birds in person. BYO binoculars or let us know when you register if you’d like to borrow a pair.

Who is Invited

Open to ages 12 and older; minors must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Reservations required! Sorry, no group registrations; no pets please.

Registration, Fees, Day Pass & Cancellation

Registration is required for this program. Group size is limited. Registration opens on Saturday, two weeks prior to the event, and closes at noon, the Thursday before the event. Though the program is free, entrance fees to the Natural Area apply.

The Natural Area can be very busy! To ensure entrance and save time at the Fee Booth please pre-purchase and PRINT OUT a Day Pass . SPECIAL NOTE: Reserving a Day Pass is NOT the same as making a program reservation.

This program is subject to cancellation. Check trail conditions by going to the GCSNA twitter feed or the Government Canyon State Natural Area Facebook page.

When & Where to Meet

Arrive no later than 7:45AM.  Meet at the Visitors Center near the rainwater harvesting tower. The Natural Area front gates open at 7:00AM; plan to be at the Visitor Center and ready to go no later than 7:45AM. The program starts promptly at 8:00AM.

What to Wear & Bring

Wear sturdy shoes, hat, sunscreen, and bring at least one liter of water per person.